Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Thighs: I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as breasts can dry out more easily.

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, and I recommend using the minced kind for a bolder taste. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, just use less—about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.

Rice: Long-grain white rice soaks up all the flavors wonderfully, but you can use brown rice for added nutrients. If you do, just double the cooking time and use more liquid.

Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice creaminess to the dish. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can substitute Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

How Can You Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Through Without Drying It Out?

Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! Start by searing the chicken for that golden crust, which locks in moisture. After adding it back to the pan with rice, cover it to trap steam.

• Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is the safe zone.
• Once it’s done, remove the pan from heat and let it rest for a few moments before serving. This helps keep the chicken juicy!

With these tips, you’ll have tender and flavorful chicken every time! Happy cooking!

Easy One-Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to cook. So in just under an hour, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken:

First, take your chicken thighs (or breasts) and sprinkle them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will ensure they’re full of flavor.

2. Sear the Chicken:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

3. Sauté the Garlic:

In the same pan, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic can get bitter if overcooked!

4. Add the Rice:

Next, add the rinsed rice to the pan. Stir it around to coat the grains with the flavorful garlic oil. This helps the rice cook evenly.

5. Pour in the Liquid:

Now, pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. If you like a little heat, add the red pepper flakes here. Stir everything well and taste to see if you’d like to add salt and pepper.

6. Cook the Chicken with Rice:

Place the chicken thighs back in the pan, resting them on top of the rice. Lower the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors and the chicken to cook through.

7. Finish with Creaminess:

Once the rice is cooked and the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove the pan from heat. Stir in the butter and grated Parmesan cheese right into the rice. This will create a lovely creamy texture.

8. Garnish and Serve:

Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve up this comforting dish straight from the pan and enjoy!

Bon Appétit! Enjoy your comforting, cheesy garlic Parmesan chicken and rice—all made in one pan!

Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Once thawed, proceed with the recipe as usual.

Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the garlic and broth ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to cook, just bring everything together as directed in the recipe!

How Can I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice from drying out. Heat gently in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

What Can I Serve With This Dish?

This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. It also pairs well with crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce!